You OK hun?

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Feb 13 MENTAL MUTHA MEETS LAURA RUTHERFORD

MENTAL MUTHA MEETS LAURA RUTHERFORD

Are you a mental Mum or a Mum that’s mental?

I am a Mum that’s mental!

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Meditate? Talk? Hide?

Wow, when do I not feel overwhelmed?! Being a mum and having to deal with my mental health issues as well as keeping my shit together for the family is a big task. I’m very often overwhelmed. Overwhelmed with life, stresses, the juggle. I’ve learnt over the years that hiding does nothing but make me suffer longer, so I’ve gathered the skills to open up and talk. I talk to my husband, my mummy, my sisters or friends. Talking through things is my therapy and I can highly recommend it. I’m also a Christian, so I quite often pray too J

Do you discuss your mental health with your mum mates?

To an extent. There are probably some elements I might hold back and only share with my family, however I am a big believer in allowing people ‘in’ because to share your vulnerability can usually make you even stronger.

How do you tackle mental health chats with your kid’s?

I’m always conscious of keeping the conversation channels open with my boys. I encourage them to talk about their feelings and to be honest. I know these chats will inevitably get harder as they get older, so it’s best to put things in place now, to make it more normal and ok for them to talk.

Who helps you in the dark? (In your pits, your mental rock bottom - who is your hero?)

My husband is a great support, but in all honesty, it has to be my mum that is my hero. There have been two episodes’ in particular when I’ve been at my lowest and most desperate. She just knows, and can see it in my eyes. She’s amazing at just embracing me in the biggest safest hug. One time she rushed over to comfort me as I was curled up in a ball on the sofa, like a baby. All she had to do was hold my hands and a wave of calm came over me. My 6 siblings are also my rocks... we’re like a bunch of bananas: when one gets bruised the others do too.

What helps you in the light? (Meditation? Procrastination? Perspiration? People?)

People. Especially people I love. Lovely long walks with my beautiful children. Fresh air and sunshine.

Is it hard to talk about your mental health? (Doesn't mean on Instagram necessarily, but do you feel the stigma is lifting and do you feel safe to speak your mind, even if it is possibly 'mental'?)

I’m certainly equipped with the tools now to know when I’m struggling or when the fog is coming. I find it very helpful to talk openly about it, because I’ve had personal experience of mental health for over 10years. Depression for me is so real and I hope that by talking honestly about my own journey, that it might encourage others to do so too.

Where’s your head at?

In a good place. I feel safe and clear-headed. But that’s not to say tomorrow may be foggy!